Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Eligible?

The program is be open to all students in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, and Monroe counties on an unlimited basis. Students will have to take a pre-placement survey and pass an interview with the Program/Student Coordinator prior to being accepted into the program. SOAR may be of particular interest to students who would like to participate in the South Redford experience but do not live in district, to those who play on traveling sports teams or who have other professional or family commitments that require a more flexible schedule, or for those who are looking for accelerated school option.

How do I apply?

You can apply by clicking here or by clicking Apply from the top menu bar. Students may only enter the program at the start of each semester (September and late January), though we will accept applications at any time.

What will my diploma say?

Students who meet the graduation requirements of the South Redford School District will earn a South Redford High School Diploma. If the student completes the requirements by May 30th, they will have the opportunity to walk in the annual commencement ceremony held at Thurston High School.
Resident students who have completed a minimum of 20 credits by the end of the first semester of their senior year and are in good standing may transfer back to Thurston to complete their high school education and earn a Thurston High School Diploma.

What if I discover online learning is not for me?

If you find that the program is not working for you as well as you had hoped it would, you may transfer back to Pierce Middle School or Thurston High School at the semester break, or, if South Redford is not your home district, back to your home district.

What makes SOAR different from other online schools?

All students in Soar Academic Institute will be assigned a mentor who will connect with them on a consistent and regular basis. Each student will have a personalized learning plan (PLP) designed to meet their individual needs.

The mentor is expected to develop a supportive relationship with assigned students and provide academic support. The mentor agrees to meet with the student a minimum of one (1) time per week outside of required lab attendance. Meetings by be face-to-face, via phone, or online.

How many credits are needed to graduate?

SOAR will follow the Michigan Merit Curriculum, which requires 18 credits to earn a high school diploma. More information can be found here: Curriculum

Can I use SOAR for credit recovery?

Yes.

Can I take some courses at SOAR and others at school?

No.

What if I have special needs? Can I still attend SOAR?

Yes.

What subjects are offered?

We currently offer 225 courses and counting!

How much time should I expect to spend each week on my coursework?

Not including your lab time, a student in SOAR should expect to spend approximately 20 hours a week working on their coursework. Some weeks may be more, some weeks may be less.

Is Transportation provided?

No, we are unable to provide transportation.

How can I monitor my child’s progress?

Parents will receive regular updates from the student’s mentor. Parents can contact the mentor at any time to setup an individual meeting. There is also an option within the software program for parents to log-in and see their child’s progress.

What happens if a student breaks a laptop?

Typical issues with the laptops will be taken care of by the District’s technology department. In the case of a major break, if the damage is not malicious, then the district will replace the laptop as it would any other technology equipment in the district.

What if a laptop is stolen?

The student/family will be responsible for filing a police report and bring in a copy of the report to the district. The Lo-Jack anti-theft device installed all each laptop. Once a theft is reported to the district, Lo-Jack will be notified to begin the recovery process.